Parenting Blog


Tips for Parent/Teacher Conference PDF Print E-mail
Written by Anna DalPorto   
Wednesday, 23 September 2009 15:09

Parent Teacher conferences can be a stressful time for many families. You may be feeling nervous, but remember that many teachers are just as nervous as you are. They need to tell you about your child in a very short time. Also remember that what you have to say is just as important as what the teacher has to say. The purpose of the conference is to SHARE information about your child so that the teacher can do their best job. You know your child best so plan on sharing your child's strengths, talents,  interests, and motivations for learning.

Before the conference:
*Ask your child what they want you to talk about.

*Decide whether or not to disclose any family problems that may affect your child's progress. ( if your child has health problems, share them)

*Write down any questions you have ahead of time, prioritize your list in case time runs short.

*Plan to leave a card for the teacher containing your home and work numbers

During the Conference:

*Listen carefully and write down questions you have while they are talking

*Tell the teacher the things about your child you want him/her to know

*Ask your questions

*Find out if there are any problems, and brainstorm ways to work together.

*Sharing and working together is what conferences are all about, and remember to share the information with your child.


adopted from Evelyn Petersen, ParentTalk Newsletter

 
Back to School Tips PDF Print E-mail
Written by Anna DalPorto   
Thursday, 13 August 2009 00:00

During the transition back to school, your child may be experiencing a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety to stress. With a little preparation, you can make the transition easier and soothe some of your child's concerns.

Here are some of my top Back-to-School tips for parents:

  1. Be enthusiastic. If your child sees you are excited about this time, he or she may also feel more enthused.
  2. Prepare yourselves. If your child is attending a new school, take a tour of the campus before school starts so your child is familiar with where the office, bathrooms, and classrooms are located.
  3. Start routines early. Try to re-establish a bedtime routine a week before school starts.
  4. Think about lunch. Will you buy or pack a lunch? Discuss your options in advance and allow your middle schooler to help plan and pack the lunch. Good nutrition is very important for brain function throughout the day.
  5. Attend any orientation or Back-to-School nights. It is very important for parents to also become familiar with the campus, school procedures, and policies.
  6. Check the schedule. Mark your calendars early with any important dates, such as minimum (early dismissal) days, conferences, orientations, etc.
  7. Consider after-school options. Where will your child go after school — to the library, home, a friend's house, or the Boys & Girls Club? Discuss and have a plan in place so both you and your child are prepared.

With a little advance planning, you can help ease the transition back to school.

For more information and parenting tips, visit:

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